The hike to the Wadi Tayyib Esm is a breathtaking journey to one of Saudi Arabia’s natural wonders. I visited the Wadi Tayyib Esm 4 times, different times of the year but always making sure that I see sunset there. because it’s a truly magical place.
Update: the Wadi Tayyib Esm is closed to visitors due to the construction work happening in Magna, NEOM
Hidden beauty in Tabuk
The charming historic province of Tabuk is full of incredible landscapes, and Wadi Tayyib Esm is one of its gems. The valley is located near the Gulf of Aqaba, 15 kilometres north of the coastal town of Maqna. For the moment, the site is temporarily closed, and a permit is required to access it. After passing the security checkpoint, I didn’t encounter anyone. The scenic route follows the turquoise waters and beaches of the Gulf of Aqaba. The drive itself is amazing and the mountains gradually come into view until you reach the starting point of the Wadi Tayyib Esm.
Start of the Wadi Tayyib Al Ism hike
The arrival is simply breathtaking: a small beach, a few palm trees, and granite cliffs soaring 400 metres high. That’s why I always make sure to hike back in time for sunset, not only for the stunning view, but also because I wouldn’t want to get stuck in the gorge after dark!
It is one of the very few places in the NEOM region with a permanent water flow. It’s hard to believe when looking at my photos, but the water flow can increase significantly. We set off on the trail. It’s impossible to get lost as you just need to follow the river. Wadi Tayyib Esm is lush, and fortunately, the temperatures are cooler. Since the canyon cliffs are very tall, they provide enough shade to make the hike enjoyable, even in summer. The ideal hiking season is from November to March. The rest of the year, it’s very hot.
Even in summer, I was surprised to see so much green. It’s a sign that the ground still holds a lot of water. I loved the contrast between the neutral-coloured stone and the vibrant greenery, a true oasis in the desert. on two occasions I met with camels, but always on their own.
The place also holds religious significance: many Saudis believe that Moses landed at Wadi Tayyib Esm after crossing the sea from Egypt.
The end of the trail
The trail ends where the gorge begins to open up. There’s a rojoom (a cairn or pile of rocks) marking the spot, along with boulders placed to block vehicle access. We climbed up a little to gain some elevation, but there wasn’t much to see from above. Honestly, the gorge is at its most beautiful when you’re inside it. The return follows the same trail back.
Being alone in a place like this feels like a rare luxury these days. I enjoy traveling to more remote locations, and Saudi Arabia offers plenty of them. Even near Riyadh, I’ve lost count of how many times I had entire places to myself. That will likely change in the coming years, of course, but for now, you can still experience that freedom to roam without crossing paths with anyone.
The Wadi Tayyib Al Ism was silent and majestic. We only encountered camels, cats, birds, and a toad. I felt completely disconnected from the modern world.
On time for the sunset
Once out of the canyon, the sun is lower, and the colours have already turned to orange. We waited on the beach to enjoy the sound of the waves and the cool(er) breeze. When we get back in the car, the colours shift to pastel. We decide to stop and enjoy the last rays of the sun.
I had the chance to discover this incredible place. The NEOM region is full of stunning landscapes. The more time I spend in this area, the more I want to explore the rest of the country.
